Something surprising happened on Wednesday night in the world of red carpet style: the ladies of the Dally M Medal outclassed their AFL counterparts.

Given rugby league matches often feature ostentatious elements like fireworks and cheerleaders and its players make headlines for wild behaviour, you’d expect a certain level of gaudiness at the game’s night of nights.

Surprisingly, it turns out the ladies of the NRL – and their partners – know how to nail a black-tie dress code. The Dally M red carpet was populated by elegant gowns in muted tones, long sleeves, subtle lace and just the right amount of sparkle.

Even among the blokes, there was no bizarre facial fuzz or questionable hairstyles in sight.

The Dally M red carpet – nice, but dull. Photo: Getty

In fact, when compared with the plunging necklines and thigh-high splits of the Brownlow red carpet, the Dally M was actually boring. And therein lies the rub.

As sporting spectators, none of us like an easy victory. The same goes when we’re rabidly consuming the gowns on the red carpets of these duelling awards nights.

The women of the Brownlow take risks – some which pay off, some of which don’t – and that’s why the evening attracts the attention of national media, stylists, clothing designers and fashion commentators.

No one will ever accuse the Brownlow red carpet of being boring. Photo: Getty

This year’s event saw the red carpet hit peak statement-making style. Nadia Bartel wore a beaded, plunging jumpsuit, Jordan Ablett rocked thigh-high boots and a barely-there gown and Annie Nolan opted to wear a tuxedo to make a point about double standards for women.

There were big sleeves, backless gowns, bright colours, braided hairstyles and princess skirts.

The biggest statement on the Dally M was a long train – and Kate Middleton did that years ago at her wedding.

The biggest statement on the Dally M red carpet came courtesy of model Ortenzia Borre. Photo: Getty

In part, we have Rebecca Judd to thank for the Brownlow’s dominance. Arguably the most famous of the AFL WAGs, Judd (then Twigley) redefined the dress code in 2004 with that plunging red gown.

Since then, the pressure’s been on to step up the style – or lack thereof. The result has been a series of shockers in among some glowing triumphs. Regardless, we’ve always had something to talk about the next morning.

Who could forget this iconic moment from Rebecca Judd in 2004? Photo: Getty

Judd, who gave birth to twin boys on Thursday, has continuously delivered on the promise she made in 2004, although she hasn’t quite bared that much skin since.

Despite her absence this year, Judd’s comrades held down the fort for her by delivering the kind of glamour that would make the style maven proud.

Rebecca Judd’s daring Brownlow style throughout the years. Photo: Getty

While the women of the Dally M should be applauded for dressing for the occasion, the women of the Brownlow claim best on ground for embracing everything fashion should be – fun, daring and, most importantly, memorable.